Griffith businesses 'mostly upbeat'

THE majority of Griffith businesses have a positive outlook for the future, believing their performance will be stronger over the next six months.

The findings came out of Griffith City Council's 2013 business survey, conducted during September and October.

The survey, which was released at a business breakfast on Wednesday, also found 37 per cent of local businesses are expecting increased profits over the coming months, while almost two-thirds are planning for growth in the next three years.

Council interviewed 110 businesses across 16 industry sectors, ranging from property business services to cafes and restaurants, health and community services and education, located in the CBD, shopping malls and villages.

Businesses ranged from sole traders to small to medium and large operators.

In the previous 12 months, 35 per cent of businesses surveyed had seen an improvement in profits and 37 per cent had noticed an increase in customers.

However, 30 per cent believed there was a downturn in profits and 21 per cent had noticed a decline in their business turnover.

Griffith City Council's Economic Development Officer, Nicola James, said business' anticipated lift in profits over the next three months was a "really positive sign".

"That does include the Christmas trading period but also January and February, which are traditionally quieter months here," Ms James said.

"In saying that (the survey was) across the board, not just retail."

Advertising, updated computer systems and training were activities businesses undertook to improve their competitive advantage, while looking at innovation and new technologies and increasing their customer base.

"Businesses are looking at taking advantages of opportunities that's a really positive sign," Ms James said.

"They are trying to attract new customers and are actively trying to improve their position, seizing opportunities and pursuing them."

Ms James said the survey provided council with valuable feedback from business owners, particularly in relation to the CBD.

IN TALKS: Griffith Mayor Cr John Dal Broi, Managing Director of Baiada, Simon Camilleri, and Primary Producer John Bonetti at a business breakfast on Wednesday.